Rabat - Tensions between the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) and the Justice and Development Party (PJD) – already running high due to to the teacher trainee protests – are expected to increase further this week as the municipality of Rabat, currently controlled by the PJD, is due to host a “teaching day” on cannabis on Wednesday.
Rabat – Tensions between the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) and the Justice and Development Party (PJD) – already running high due to to the teacher trainee protests – are expected to increase further this week as the municipality of Rabat, currently controlled by the PJD, is due to host a “teaching day” on cannabis on Wednesday.
The symposium, which will be hosted by the National Coalition for the Fight Against Drugs and the governmental council that oversees the Rabat-Sale-Kenitra region, will be titled “The Effects of Cannabis on Social Peace and Sustainable Development” a hall administered by the local government.
Tangier’s local government, which is presently controlled by the PAM party, held a similar symposium on the international level last month during which a royal spokesperson addressed the attendees on King Mohammed VI’s future policy for the cultivation of cannabis.
The coalition co-hosting the event this week is headed by Rashida Almuqre Abuzayd, who is affiliated with the PJD — PAM’s current rival in the political arena. According to Abuzayd, the cultivation of the cannabis plant in rural areas in the northern part of the country is not as old as suggested by the supporters of plant growers.
The practice only dates back to the last century, she said, representing her opposition to the presence of the drug in Morocco. A stance which runs contrary to the pro-cultivation position of the PAM and the Independence Party.
The anti-drug coalition also attacked the symposium held in Tangier, saying the event contributed to a type of official acceptance of the drug in Morocco and thus, betrayed the country.
Parties supporting the growth of cannabis in the country have released draft laws on the issue in the past, however, opposing parties and other social organizations have vocalized their ardent criticism of these proposals.
